1973 Honda Civic vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1973 Honda Civic. (60 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1973 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 586 kg more than 1973 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta (172 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Honda Civic. (103 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Honda Civic | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 745 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2480 mm |
